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Sweet peas (Lathryus odoratus) are one of the most satisfying cut flowers you can grow, combining intense fragrance with old-fashioned charm. The dainty flowers grow on robust vines that reach heights of up to 6 feet. These cool-season flowers bloom in spring or fall, and the cut flowers last about five days in the vase when you use proper cutting and conditioning techniques.

Cutting

Cutting the flowers at the right time improves the vase life. Cut sweet pea flowers right after they open completely. The best time of day to cut is early in the morning, before sun and wind have a chance to dry the flowers, or late in the evening after they are rehydrated. If you plan to spend more than a few minutes in the garden, take a bucket of water with you and place the stems in the bucket as soon as you cut them. Otherwise, take the flowers indoors right away for conditioning.

Conditioning

Fresh cut sweet peas last longer if they are conditioned immediately after cutting. Cut the stems 1 to 2 inches above the original cut while holding them underwater to prevent air bubbles that can block the flow of water in up the stem. Place them in a bucket of water that comes up to the neck of the flowers and set them in a shaded location for several hours or overnight. When you are ready to arrange the flowers in a vase, remove the leaves that would otherwise be underwater.

Maintaining

Floral preservatives help extend the vase flower life by preventing the growth of bacteria in the vase. You can get the same results from changing the water in the vase once or twice a day. If you choose to use a preservative, follow the preparation instructions. This is a case when more is not better. Don't add sugar or other sweeteners to the water. The flowers are no longer growing, so they don't need sugar, and sweeteners promote the growth of bacteria. Place the vase of flowers out of direct sunlight and away from drafts, and add water as necessary to keep the vase full. Occasional misting helps keep the flowers looking fresh.

Arranging Sweet Peas

Sweet peas don't have stiff, upright stems that hold up well in large vases. Instead, place the stems in bud vases with tall, narrow necks that will support the stems. Use three or more vases close together for mingled flowers that create a full, unified look. If you prefer to use a single, wide-mouthed vase, place the stems that want to trail over the side near the front. "Royal Family" and "Mammoth" cultivars have large flowers that display well. Use "Maggie May," "Old Spice" or "Painted Lady" for intense fragrance.

About the Author

Jackie Carroll has been a freelance writer since 1995. Her home-and-garden and nature articles have appeared in "Birds & Blooms" and "Alamance Today." She holds a Bachelor of Science in medical technology from the University of North Carolina.